Objective: to analyze the application of the theory evaluation model proposed by Meleis in Brazilian studies.
Method: integrative review of online articles published from 2002 to 2012 in the databases LILACS and BDENF.
Results: the 16 selected studies confirmed the use of only three of the five stages proposed for Meleis' theories analysis: Description of the Theory, Criticism of the Theory and Analysis of the Theory, with a predominance of a single unit of analysis in each.
Conclusion: the analysis of nursing theories provides support to nurses in the practice, research, education and administration of the different dimensions of care. Meleis' model figures as very important by contributing to the development of knowledge of nursing discipline, considering that its use as a method allows several reflections on theories in order that they be revalidated to support a more theoretical and practical applicability.